In Thailand we had heard good things about Madame
Cuc from other travelers, so when planning our trip to Saigon, we
emailed her establishment at madamcuc@hcm.vnn.vn. She respectfully and promptly replied, with detailed
information answering our questions.

The twenty dollar room rate included air-con, TV, minibar, and ensuite
bath, as well as breakfast of fruit, baguette and jam, coffee, tea or juice, fresh
fruit throughout the day, and dinner of spring rolls and noodle soup! She
also provided pick-up from the airport for a six dollar charge.

HOTEL 127

This being our first trip to Vietnam, it was an arrangement we could not
refuse. Not having to concern ourselves with airport taxis and other
unknowns was a relief, plus
the location in District 1 makes most sites easily accessible. This, as
it turns out, was an excellent choice.

After retrieving our bags, going though immigration and
customs, our driver, Vinh, was there waiting with our name displayed on a
large card. Needing to get to an ATM machine, he professionally
guided us to one (not such an easy task!) Five minutes later, we were on our
way through the maze
of traffic, to Hotel 127.

Hesitating to show us our room right away, coffee, tea, juice, and fresh fruit
were suggested several times. Lunch was
offered as well as spring rolls and noodle soup. Since lunch was provided
on the plane, there was no need to eat, however, they were very
insistent. Fresh squeezed orange juice and cold juicy dragon fruit
quickly appeared before us. We wanted to
get to the room, unpack and relax. They wanted to feed us, sit,
talk, and get to know us a little better!

Then Madame Cuc arrived. With her long black hair, countless glittery rings,
bracelets and watch, she commanded a presence. She was proud that her
privately run hotels were the first, 12 years ago, to be in this area.
Hotel 127 is one of five hotels she runs, so if 127 if full, they will
take you to another.

AKAISHA WITH THE FRIENDLY STAFF

The room was large, clean and well lighted, just as described. But the staff is what
makes this hotel special. Upbeat, joking with their guests,
laughing and professionally taking care of business at the same time, is a
talent. They are consistently smiling, and are eager to please. The hotel
desk took care of most of our future travel arrangements,
including tours, pick up and drop off at the airport. A valuable feature,
as it
relieved travel stress!

MADAME CUC WITH AKAISHA AND STAFF

Having fruit, snacks and excellent coffee available at any time is also a
bonus. After a
long day of sight seeing, the burden of going out to find yet another meal
is lifted. This makes the family-run operation feel more like a
home, instead of a hotel. Plus you can chat with the staff, or meet other
travelers to discover future destinations.